STELLENBOSCH STUDENT’S BODY FOUND IN RESIDENCE

The body of a 19-year-old Stellenbosch University student was found in his room at Dagbreek student residence. The cause of his death is meningococcal meningitis.

Chris Scheffer’s cause of death has sparked urgent health warnings as the deadly bacterial infection is spread through coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing utensils and drinks.

According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), meningitis is a viral or bacterial disease which infects the thin protective membrane (meninges) that covers the brain and spinal cord. The swelling happens when bacteria or a virus infect the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

To assist students and university employees in understanding the infection, Stellenbosch University has activated its Campus Health Services protocols in line with Western Cape Department of Health guidance.

The NICD says the early warning signs in adults include sudden high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light (photophobia), cold hands and feet, and muscle or joint pain.

Symptoms in infants and young children are more difficult to detect, but according to the NICD, the symptoms include fever with cold hands and feet, high-pitched moaning, blank staring, inactivity, drowsiness, poor feeding, and inactivity.

Emergency hospital care is needed in meningococcal meningitis cases.

Image credit: Cape Town ETC